[World Gold Council Releases Mid-Year Outlook: Gold Prices May Fluctuate in Range Awaiting New Triggers] The World Gold Council today released the '2026 Global Gold Market Mid-Year Outlook.' Looking ahead to the second half of the year, the gold valuation framework indicates that gold will continue to serve as a barometer for the global macroeconomic environment. In the first half of 2026, gold prices briefly surged above $5,500 per ounce during intraday trading, then dipped in June and briefly fell below $4,000 per ounce, marking an approximate 7% correction for the year. However, over the past 12 months, gold remains one of the best-performing assets. The report highlights that current gold prices roughly reflect the consensus scenario of 'moderate global economic growth, slightly lower but still elevated inflation, and limited expectations for central bank rate hikes.' It is anticipated that gold prices will likely fluctuate within a ±5% range in the second half of the year.